SQLFusion - Judge to look at inquiry mandate

Judge To Investigate If Inquiry Has "Gone Off The Rails"

Cornwall News AM 1220

September 06, 2007 — Justice James Fontana is going to be taking a closer look at the Cornwall Public Inquiry. following closing arguments at the obstruction of justice trial for Steve Parisien, Fontana says he intends to get a copy of the terms of reference for the inquiry. Fontana was troubled with repeated testimony about how the Cornwall Public Inquiry was progressing. One witness testified he was not satisfied with everything coming out of the inquiry. Steve Parisien also testified he believed the inquiry had lost its focus on the victims. He told court the police and the justice system "don't give a rat's rear" about the victims and they are doing it now at the inquiry. Justice Fontana says he intends to find out whether the inquiry has "gone off the rails."

Parisien Trial Ends - Wait Begins For Verdict

Cornwall News AM 1220

September 06, 2007 — The judge in the Steve Parisien obstruction of justice trial will deliver his verdict later this month. Parisien, who is a member of the Victim's Group which has standing at the Cornwall Public Inquiry, has pleaded not guilty to the charge. Yesterday, the crown and defense both focused on whether or not Parisien willfully obstructed the course of justice. Crown lawyer, Jay Spare, maintains he did by what was said in the phone call to the Roy's on December 4th last year. In his submission, Spare says victim advocacy at the inquiry crossed the line when Parisien told Albert Roy he could "plead the fifth" during his testimony. Spare adds the minor variances in the testimony of Albert Roy and his wife Victoria is proof there was no collusion between husband and wife. Roy also testified Parisien told him he could lie or have memory lapses while on the stand at the Cornwall Public Inquiry. But Defense lawyer, Bill Wade, says Parisien is a man who worked to help victims for nearly 10 years and would not want to undermine the judicial process. Wade says the fact Roy talked with his wife about his testimony would say collusion is very much alive. Justice James Fontana won't render his decision until September 21st as he needs time to receive a transcript of an audio recording.